Corrie Van Sice, a national thought leader in 3D printing, biotechnology and innovation culture, will share her perspectives in Chattanooga on June 3 at The Church on Main. The event will take place from 6 – 9 p.m. Her discussion will highlight the intellectual trade grounds emerging around 3D printing, as well as the changing landscape of engineering innovation.

The event is the first installment of the Chattanooga Spirit Series, a string of speaking engagements that will feature national voices on topics that highlight emerging innovation opportunities in Chattanooga. Sponsored by the Benwood Foundation, the Chattanooga Spirit Series is meant to inspire a shared exploration into areas of growing potential for the community.

The series is hosted by The Company Lab, The Enterprise Center, Lamp Post Group and SwiftWing Ventures.

“Chattanooga seemed like an unlikely hotspot for 3D printing innovators, yet there is a felt enthusiasm there, and locals can already access the tool in their public library,” said Ms. Van Sice. “This state of intrigue combined with a supportive and collaborative community is the recipe for truly surprising adaptations. As someone who studies innovation culture, I’m looking forward to discussing the interdisciplinary future of 3D printing in a city that appears to have a reputation for working together.”

"Ms. Van Sice is widely-recognized for blending 3D printing with applications in materials engineering, biotechnology and the arts. She regularly partners with researchers, engineers, artists and designers across the globe to develop new, interdisciplinary-oriented technologies and processes. Her perspectives on the future of materials manufacturing, the changing culture of making things and the role of community in research and innovation have distinguished her as a much sought-after voice on a number of emergent topics in science and technology." officials said.

“We’re delighted to have an innovator of Corrie’s caliber join us in Chattanooga for our first session of the Chattanooga Spirit Series,” said Mike Bradshaw, executive director of CO.LAB. “Not only is she an important pioneer in 3D printing, she is also a creative engineer who applies new, integrated ways of thinking to the art and science of making things. Our community can learn a great deal from her experiences and research, and we’re looking forward to introducing her to our city.”

While in Chattanooga, Ms. Van Sice will spend time mentoring the startups participating in CO.LAB’s GIGTANK program. As America’s first startup accelerator for the 3D printing industry, GIGTANK is currently supporting seven teams of entrepreneurs who are developing applications in 3D printing.

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